Easter Vigil – 3.4.2010

23:00 we are seated in one of the naves of the Collegiata in wooden pews. Our view of the altar was completely blocked by the massive columns. Prayers began with dim lights, almost dark, while waiting for midnight to strike and mass to begin. Then large wooden doors burst open precisely at the exact same time the band played, bells rang, fire crackers went off outside and all the lights came on to announce entrance of the resurrected Christ. The statue of Jesus Christ was carried in through the doors on the shoulders of men running towards the altar. Then once the silence broke out people began to walk up towards the statue to kiss and touch him then returned to their seats for mass. Mass was the same as every other mass I have been to here in Italy. All together it was an unforgettable experience, an interesting way to emphasize the resurrection. I was woken up Easter morning by church bells ringing loud and clear for about five minutes. Following the sound of the bells was birds chirping as sunlight shown through the shutters leading me to believe it was a glorious day to hike to the near by castle. In reality it was gloomy, cloudy, and raining. It made for a relaxing rainy day with friends watching movies, singing along to the movies, devouring a delicious Easter feast, and card playing. That night they took me to the Velvet Underground Bar. The bouncer let us into the dark bar full of local Italians. An attractive detail by the bar was a clear glass cover that revealed an old well in the floor. A live band was playing loud enough to make conversation awkward and difficult. For that reason alone we left and went to Regiro’s to talk which turned into dancing in the backroom with crazy flashing lights and smoke. Of course I got all hot and sweaty as I enjoyed dancing with and teaching some of the people I was with. This time there were a couple of Italians that tried to learn but they did not last more than half a song before they left. This was one of the best decisions I have made about traveling. I was able to spend time with good friends, meeting new people, and dancing.